Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a microorganism that causes genital warts and is classified as high and low risk according to its ability to cause cancer.
It is considered a sexually transmitted disease. It is spread by oral, vaginal or anal contact with an infected person. Virtually all sexually active men and women contract it at some point in their lives.
Condylomas are usually asymptomatic lesions. However, they can cause itching, stinging, swelling, a feeling of irritation and less frequently pain or even bleeding with sexual intercourse. Frequently, warts or raised lesions of varying size are observed with a rough surface, taking on a shape reminiscent of a cauliflower. In men, warts may appear on the tip or shaft of the penis, anus or scrotum. In women, they may appear on the vulva and perineal area, and extend into the vagina and cervix. However, they can also appear in the throat and mouth of a person who has had oral sex with an infected person.
Diagnosis is clinical by questioning and physical examination. There is no specific test to detect if the individual is infected by HPV. In women, it is very important to have regular check-ups to prevent it from progressing to cervical cancer.
There are several treatments aimed at eliminating warts: cryotherapy, electrocautery or surgical removal. Cytotoxic or immunomodulatory drugs can also be used and applied to the lesions.
There is a vaccine that protects both men and women from infection.
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